Heather Melville (OBE) was announced to be the University of York’s new Chancellor yesterday afternoon.
Coined by the University as a “diversity and inclusion champion”, Melville is renowned for her work promoting these values in the workplace, especially amongst women and ethnic minorities.
She is currently the Senior Managing Director of the company Tenco, where she helps businesses build long-term, sustainable practices. As of next year, she will be moving to the University of York.
As the Chancellor, Melville will be the ceremonial figurehead of the University, largely responsible for playing an ambassadorial role for York.
In an email to students, Vice-Chancellor Charlie Jeffery said:
“Our Chancellor plays an important role as an advocate for the University, promoting York in the UK and Internationally, and championing all that our students and graduates aspire to be.”
On her appointment, Melville said, “I am very proud to support the goals and ambitions of the University of York, and to help champion why it is so important to create an inclusive, diverse community for all.”
Melville’s formal installation will take place on the 18th of January 2023 in an official ceremony joined by students and staff.
In 2017, Melville was recognized with an OBE for her services to gender and business studies. She has strong ties with the University of York, and has been working with the University to promote doctoral studies for graduates from black, Asian, and minority ethnic backgrounds.
She will become the University’s 7th Chancellor taking over from Malcolm Grant, who has been in the post since 2015.